While having dental implants placed can be a great way to improve your smile, it is also normal to feel some nerves about the surgery and recovery process. This is because dental implants need to fuse with the bone to be successful, which can take some time. However, many people find that the final results are worth the wait! Here’s how you can recover in the best way possible after this procedure:
Go Soft on Your Diet
After getting dental implants, you will likely have some swelling and pain in your mouth. To help with this, it is important to eat soft, nutritious foods that will not irritate your mouth. Note that the osseointegration takes time, so you’ll have to ease into your regular diet slowly.
Some good options include:
- Yogurt.
- Applesauce.
- Soup.
- Mashed potatoes.
- Scrambled eggs.
- Fish.
- Porridge.
- Oatmeal.
After dental implant surgery, avoiding hot or spicy foods for the first 48 hours is recommended. As the area heals, you can gradually progress to minimal chewing, but be sure to follow your dentist’s instructions on what to eat.
Ice the Area When Needed
Some people experience more swelling than others after getting dental implants. Ice packs are an easy and effective way to decrease swelling and relieve pain. To prevent damaging skin, wrap the ice pack in a towel before applying it to your face for about 20 minutes. Remove it for 20 minutes before starting the process again, as leaving ice packs on your skin for too long or not wrapping them in a towel can result in an ice burn.
Keep Drinking Water
Consistent hydration is important. Drinking water will help your skin look its best and help your body function properly, especially concerning the healing process.
It is essential to stay hydrated after having dental implants placed. Drinking lots of water helps your body flush toxins and speed up healing. Avoid caffeine and alcohol as these liquids can dehydrate the body and delay recovery. Using a straw is also not recommended as it can disturb healing.
Rinse with This Instead of Regular Mouthwash
A saltwater rinse cleans the mouth and reduces bacteria after dental implant surgery. To make a saltwater rinse, you will need to add one teaspoon of salt to an 8-oz. glass of warm water. Once the salt dissolves, gently swish and gargle the mixture in your mouth for approximately 30 seconds and then spit. Ensure the homemade solution soaks every nook and cranny of your mouth. Since you’ll be gargling it, make it reach your throat.
Saltwater rinses can be performed up to four times daily, depending on your dentist’s instructions.
Take That Break
Finally, it is important to take it easy and rest after having dental implant surgery to help your body heal. Pushing yourself too soon can slow down your recovery time. Once you start to feel better, be careful not to overdo it with strenuous activities or any task that could risk you being hit in the face, as this could lead to postoperative complications.
In Summary
Treat dental implants like any other medical procedure. You rarely see post-op patients up and at them immediately, so remember these tips to achieve the best recovery period possible.
It’s also best to get a good clinic for dental implants in Brighton, so contact Chestnut Hill Dental today! We provide patients with a multi-disciplinary approach to dental health and care. Book your appointment now through our website!
